Long Beach is a coastal city in southeastern Los Angeles County, about 20 miles south of downtown Los Angeles, and is part of the Gateway Cities region. It is known for its waterfront attractions, including the permanently docked RMS Queen Mary and the Aquarium of the Pacific, and it hosts the Grand Prix of Long Beach and the Long Beach Pride Festival and Parade.
For a visitor, the city divides into a few practical bases: Downtown, the Port area, the Airport area, and the stretch along Pacific Coast Highway. This guide covers which of those areas to base yourself in, who each one suits, and what kind of accommodation you will find there.
Best areas to stay in Long Beach
1. Downtown
Downtown is the most convenient base for a first visit. Linden Avenue, between Ocean and 3rd, has a lot of hotels, and the wider downtown area holds a range of places from small historic apart-hotels to full-service luxury properties, several with water views. It also puts you within walking distance of the waterfront and the Pike Outlets, with the convention center one block from Linden at 1st Street.
This area suits first-time visitors and anyone who wants to be close to the waterfront and the main sights. It is also the busiest and most varied part of the city for places to stay, so it is the obvious starting point when comparing options.
2. Port
The Port area is where you find the Queen Mary, permanently docked and operating as a hotel with first-class staterooms, along with a Latin resort-themed property on Queensway Drive with balconies and patios facing the bay or the skyline. This is a quieter, more self-contained base than Downtown.
It suits travellers who want a waterfront setting and don't mind being a short drive from the downtown sights. Note that parking at the Queen Mary is charged per night, so factor that into your budget if you are bringing a car.
3. Airport
The Airport area, around East Willow Street and Lakewood Boulevard, is the practical choice. Here you find budget suites with fully equipped kitchens, smoke-free hotels with outdoor heated pools and fitness centers, and larger full-service properties, several of which run shuttle-friendly locations near the airport.
This area suits families with kids, longer stays and anyone arriving or departing by air. It is well set up for self-catering, and some properties charge for overnight parking or internet, so check those details before booking.
4. Elsewhere (Pacific Coast Highway)
Along East Pacific Coast Highway you find simpler, lower-cost accommodation, including motels with free wi-fi and pet-friendly policies. This is the most budget-oriented part of the city for lodging.
It suits budget travellers and those passing through by car. It is further from the waterfront attractions, so you will rely on driving to reach Downtown and the Port.
Where to stay on a budget, mid-range or splurge
- Budget: motels and budget hotel suites, some with kitchenettes and free wi-fi, often along Pacific Coast Highway or near the airport.
- Mid-range: chain hotels and smaller historic properties, typically with a pool, fitness center or breakfast included, concentrated Downtown and around the airport.
- Splurge: full-service luxury and waterfront hotels Downtown and at the Port, some with water views, rooftop pools, spas and on-site restaurants.
Best area for a first visit
Downtown is the best base for a first visit. It has the densest concentration of places to stay, from budget to luxury, and it sits closest to the waterfront, the Pike Outlets and the convention center. Staying here keeps the main sights within easy reach and gives you the widest choice when comparing prices.
Frequently asked questions
Which area has the most hotels?
Downtown, and specifically Linden Avenue between Ocean and 3rd, has a lot of hotels.
Where can I stay near the Queen Mary?
The Port area, where the Queen Mary itself operates as a hotel and another bay-view property sits on Queensway Drive.
Which area is best for a budget stay?
The stretch along East Pacific Coast Highway has the simplest, lowest-cost options, including motels with free wi-fi.
Which area suits families or longer stays?
The Airport area, where you find budget suites with fully equipped kitchens and practical amenities for families with kids.
Compare live prices for these areas with the booking tools on this page before you decide.